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How does earwax build-up occur?

It is not always clear what causes a build-up of earwax. However, it tends to be more common in people who naturally produce large amounts of dry earwax. Similarly, earwax that collects a lot of foreign substances or remains in the ear canal for a long time is also more likely to dry out and form a build-up. The chance of a build-up also increases with age due to increased hair growth in the ears and slowed movement of earwax out of the ear canals over time. A build-up may also be caused by pushing earwax deeper into the ear canal by cleaning with cotton buds, or with frequent use of earphones or hearing aids.

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Author: Lauren Donley BSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Votes: 275 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Outer ear infections

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